Representing a contemporary and visually appealing upgrade to the esteemed CGEM mount, the CGEM II boasts the capability to securely accommodate Celestron's higher-end SCT optical tubes, including those up to 11 inches in size. This design ensures stability and freedom from vibrations, making it an excellent choice for both imaging and visual astronomical observations. With a remarkable 40 lbs. payload capacity and a swift 5° per second slew rate, you'll have the ability to promptly and accurately target any celestial object stored in the extensive database. Ergonomic Design The CGEM II was meticulously crafted with an emphasis on user comfort and convenience. Notable features include generously-sized Altitude and Azimuth adjustment knobs that facilitate rapid and straightforward polar alignment adjustments. The incorporation of internal RA and DEC motor wiring contributes to a tidy and hassle-free setup process. Innovation The CGEM II series introduces Celestron's groundbreaking All-Star Polar alignment procedure, which enables precise polar alignment by utilizing any visible star, even when the celestial pole is obscured from view. Another impressive feature that will undoubtedly please astrophotographers is the Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PEC), empowering users to mitigate periodic errors inherent in the worm gears while preserving the PEC recordings. Performance The CGEM II excels in tracking celestial objects positioned near the Meridian, ensuring uninterrupted imaging sessions in the most favorable part of the night sky. Its robust database comprises over 40,000 celestial objects, supports the programming of 100 user-defined objects, and offers enhanced information on more than 200 objects. Celestron's CGEM II mount serves as an ideal bridge between the Advanced VX Series and CGX Series, striking a harmonious balance between portability and precision for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers alike. Specifications MOUNT INFO: Mount Type: Computerized Equatorial Instrument load capacity: 40 lbs (18 kg) Height adjustment range (includes mount and tripod): 1346mm - 1651mm (53" – 65") Tripod Leg Diameter: 50.8mm (2") Steel tripod with graduated markings on lower section Latitude adjustment range: 15° - 70° Mount Head Weight: 40 lbs (18.14 kg) Accessory Tray: Yes Tripod Weight: 20 lbs (9 kg) Weight of Counterweights: 1 x 17 lbs Slew Speeds: 9 slew speeds - max speed 4.5°/second Tracking Rates: Sidereal, Solar and Lunar Tracking Modes: EQ North and EQ South GPS: N/A Dovetail Compatibility: Dual saddle plates (CG-5 and CGE saddle) Number of Auxiliary Ports: 2 AUX Ports (1x Hand control Port and 1x AUX Port for optional accessories) Autoguide Port: Yes USB Port: Yes, input on Hand Control Power Requirements: 12V DC, 3.2 amps Motor Drive: DC servo motors Alignment Procedures: 2-Star Align, 1-Star Align, Solar System Align, Last Alignment, Quick Align Periodic Error Correction: Yes Computerized Hand Control: 2 line x 18 character backlit Liquid Crystal Display, 19 LED backlit buttons, USB 2.0 Port for PC connection NexStar+ Database: 40,000+ objects, 100 user defined programmable objects Enhanced information on over 200 objects Software: Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software | SkyPortal App Total Kit Weight: 78 lbs (35.38 kg) Included Items: CGEM II Equatorial Head | Tripod | Accessory Tray | 1 x 17 lbs counterweight | NexStar+ Hand Control | DC Power Cable (item#18769) | Hand Control Holster Solar Warning California Residents View Proposition 65 Warning Software and Documentation MANUALS: CGEM II EQ Mount Manual NexStar Plus Hand Control Manual SOFTWARE & FIRMWARE: CPWI Software Celestron Firmware Manager (CFM) Software NexRemote Telescope Control Software Periodic Error Correction Tool (PECTool) OTHER PRODUCT FILES: Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control Troubleshooting Guide